The Spaniard has impressed for United this season, netting seven goals in all competitions, despite him being linked with a move away from Old Trafford prior to Mourinho’s appointment.

Keown told the Daily Mail: “Liverpool are second and United can cut the gap to Jurgen Klopp's side to two points if they win, so they are both contenders.

“United will see this is a critical game to close the gap. They will be all out to beat Liverpool.

“Jose Mourinho's side have moved on since their negative display to draw 0-0 at Anfield earlier in the season. There is a nice balance to their team.

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Jose Mourinho's side have gone 12 matches unbeaten in all competitions

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Juan Mata has netted seven goals for Manchester United this season

“In Mkhitaryan and Mata they have more artists in the team. There is more flair, more creativity.

“There is a lot more tempo to United's game and they are playing with much more confidence.

“Mata is the player who stitches everything together. He is always there for the tap in or the rescue goal. He has had to work very hard to impress Mourinho but the manager has shown that he will give everyone a second chance.

“I feel that Liverpool, on the other hand, are running out of steam a little bit. They cover so much ground and play with such high energy but are not reaching the same levels as earlier in the season.”